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About Church End

Church End is home to a multicultural community with a strong spirit rooted in its Somali, Afghanistan, Afro-Caribbean and Eastern-European heritage. It boasts a Victorian high street with a mix of independent food, drink and convenience stores. The local centre is surrounded by light industrial estates but TV and film studio spaces. 

The area is changing for the better and looks forward to welcoming 99 new council homes which will provide safe ad secure places for local people. The local council is investing £20million funding and the Greater London Authority (GLA) almost £10million towards these new homes and a brand new market square. Construction is expected to complete by 2025.

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Charting the Course of Church End: A Historical Timeline

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Early Origins
Although references to Church End can be traced back to the medieval period, the area's history is intrinsically linked to the history of the entire Brent region, dating back to Roman times. Evidence of a Roman road passing through the area suggests the presence of ancient settlements. The Saxon period saw the development of a more recognisable pattern of village life, including the formation of Hendon, an area closely tied to Church End.
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Early Origins
Medieval Period
Although references to Church End can be traced back to the medieval period, the area's history is intrinsically linked to the history of the entire Brent region, dating back to Roman times. Evidence of a Roman road passing through the area suggests the presence of ancient settlements. The Saxon period saw the development of a more recognisable pattern of village life, including the formation of Hendon, an area closely tied to Church End.
Medieval Period
The 18th and 19th Centuries
The 18th and 19th centuries were a time of significant growth for Church End, as for many parts of London. In the wake of the Industrial Revolution, the expansion of the railway networks in the mid-19th century brought new opportunities and growth to Church End. The population increased and, with this growth, came new buildings, including shops, houses, and public buildings. Several notable buildings from this era still stand today, including the Grand Union Canal's Brent Reservoir (completed in 1835), a popular spot for local birdwatchers, and the Silk Stream, a tributary of the River Brent. The Welsh Harp, a local pub, became a popular leisure destination during Victorian times. People would come from miles around to sail on the reservoir, and there was even an annual regatta.
The 18th and 19th Centuries
20th Century
The 20th century brought dramatic changes to Church End. In the early decades, there was further expansion due to the continued development of transportation, notably with the construction of the North Circular Road. However, the World Wars brought significant hardship. In particular, during the Second World War, the region was a target for bombings, resulting in considerable damage. Post-war reconstruction led to a rise in modern housing, transforming the landscape of Church End yet again. The establishment of the London Borough of Brent in 1965, combining the former boroughs of Wembley and Willesden, brought another layer of administrative change to Church End.
20th Century
Today's Church End
Today, Church End is a vibrant and diverse community, benefiting from the rich tapestry of cultures that have found a home in the area. It retains much of its historical charm, with St Mary's Church and other historical landmarks as visual reminders of its storied past. Yet it also reflects the dynamism of modern London, with bustling shopping areas and a thriving local arts scene.
Today's Church End
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Current Plans

As part of the Covid-19 Recovery Fund, the council is also delivering almost £3 million worth of improvements in Church End to help businesses and local communities bounce back after the recent pandemic.

This includes £1.9million for pavement and road improvements (i.e. more trees being planted to make the area greener and reduce air pollution, pavements widened and lights replaced to make local streets brighter and safer).

Alongside this, a further £865,000 funding is directed towards high street recovery initiatives, such as the development of the local Businesses Association, business support initiatives, shop front improvements, the area’s first annual Street Festival, community website and film documentary, shutter art, greening and a Youth Anchor provision on the high street.

An additional £300,000 of funding has also been secured via the Greater London Authority (GLA) High Streets for All Challenge Fund to support the delivery of the Youth Anchor provision, support the evolution of the Church End Partnership as well as test new and creative uses for the high street.

This was made possible thanks to a partnership formed by the Somali Advice and Forum of Information (SAAFI) and a number of other local organisations which include: African Women Centre, Brent Mencap, Fashioning our History, Free the Forgotten, St Mary’s Church, Trussell Trust and United Borders.

The partnership has been tasked with working together to create a prosperous and thriving Church End.

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Transport and logistics

Rail links 

Neasden station is within 15 minutes walking distance from Church End and is served by the Jubilee Line, including night tube services at the weekend. Baker Street is a 14-minute trip away and London Bridge is 26 minutes away.

The Harlesden station is in similar proximity to Church End and is served by the Bakerloo Line and the Euston to Watford London Overground. 

Bus links

Church End is served by 3 bus services including a 24h service with connections across North and West London.

Road routes 

There is good road access to Church End via the A406 North Circular Road as well as the A404.

International Logistics

Harlesden and Neasden stations provide access to the Eurostar international terminal at Kings Cross St Pancras in 22 minutes.

Get In Touch

If you would like to contribute your ideas to help improve Church Road or address any current challenges, please head over to the Contact page and email Grace Nelson, Town Centre Manager

Contact Us
00084-3529924793
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Church End is home to a multicultural community with a strong spirit rooted in its Somali, Afghanistan, Afro-Caribbean, and Eastern-European heritage. It boasts a Victorian high street with a mix of independent food, drink, and convenience stores. The local centre is surrounded by light industrial estates but TV and film studio spaces.

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Contact Us

  • Grace Nelson
  • Town Centre Manager
  • 07767 311 178
  • grace.nelson2@brent.gov.uk
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